Mary Graham

Mary Graham argues in the following viewpoint that most pollution problems are now local problems and state governments are the best resource for controlling and monitoring pollution. Therefore, she contends, the states should be given the authority to regulate and police pollution within their borders. She asserts that as attitudes toward the environment have changed, businesses are no longer given the green light to pollute. Graham is a fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In Graham’s opinion, why is the idea of “race to the bottom” an outdated idea?
2. Why are environmental costs rarely a determining factor in siting a new business location, according to the author?
3. What is the best way to mediate between national priorities and state differences, in...